But on June 15, Aroma Academy US will offer the first American training in the aromatics of fine rum.

Like whiskey and tequila drinkers, rum consumers are gravitating toward more expensive, distinct brands. They are finding an enormous stylistic range, from crisp, pure white to dark, evocative, barrel-aged varieties. And they’re increasingly on the hunt for what’s new and interesting.

Add to that the warming of relations between the United States and Cuba, which will bring Cuban brands and approaches to the forefront, and we think rum has next-big-thing potential.